The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) is fast-tracking the rehabilitation of the NRJ Liwayway-Ifugao Village Road to provide safer and more reliable access for Indigenous Peoples (IP) in the municipality of Diffun, Quirino, in support of the Bagong Pilipinas vision of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. for a stronger and more inclusive nation.
DPWH Secretary Manuel Bonoan, citing a report from DPWH Region II Director Mathias Malenab, announced that the road rehabilitation project that has reached 43.60 percent and is expected to be completed by December 2025 covers the reblocking of 53 distinct road sections spanning approximately 3.87 kilometers, roadway widening from its current 4-5 meters to the standard 6.1-meter Portland cement concrete pavement, installation of thermoplastic pavement markings for improved lane visibility, construction of lined drainage canals, placement of safety guardrails, and provision of street lighting.
The road rehabilitation initiative addresses the pressing need for improved road conditions following a series of accidents reported in 2022 due to pavement deterioration along the provincial road section.
“The upgraded road will facilitate faster and more efficient access to markets, schools, healthcare facilities, and emergency services, contributing to both economic growth and social development for the area’s indigenous and emerging communities.”
Once completed, the improved road will significantly reduce accident risks while strengthening connectivity for 13 barangays on the western side of Diffun-Dumanisi, Gregorio, Pimentel, Ricarte Norte, San Pascual, Magsaysay, Campamento, Rafael Palma, Macate, Baguio Village, Ifugao Village, Don Mariano Perez Sr., and Aklan Village.
“The upgraded road will facilitate faster and more efficient access to markets, schools, healthcare facilities, and emergency services, contributing to both economic growth and social development for the area’s indigenous and emerging communities,” Bonoan said.
Implemented by the Quirino District Engineering Office, the ongoing road rehabilitation project was funded under the 2024 General Appropriations Act (GAA) with a contract amount of P96.4 million.
